Choose from 58 Fun Things to Do in Costa Rica
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Manuel Antonio National Park
Spread across an area of 1,688 acres (683 hectares), Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s smallest national park. Small though it may be, its natural beauty and diverse wildlife are truly impressive, with four pristine Pacific beaches and swaths of rain forest inhabited by sloths, frogs, monkeys, and toucans.
The Basics
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich stretches of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. Most tours of the park include guided hikes and nature walks, during which participants learn about native wildlife, from iguanas and coatis (a raccoon-like creature) to capuchin monkeys. Some tours include stops at one of the park’s beaches, where visitors can swim in turquoise waters. The park can also be seen on sightseeing cruises, which often making snorkeling stops en route.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Manuel Antonio National Park is a must for nature lovers.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a swimsuit, hat, bug spray, sunscreen, and ample water.
- The park features one wheelchair-friendly trail, El Manglar (the Mangrove), which leads from the main entrance to Espadilla Sur beach.
How to Get There
Manuel Antonio National Park is situated on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, about 90 miles (150 kilometers) southwest of San Jose. Bus companies, including Tracopa, Gray Line, and Interbus, run services between San Jose and Manuel Antonio. Direct buses usually take about three hours, while nondirect buses take about five hours.
When to Get There
The park is a very popular destination for tourists and can attract large numbers of sightseers, particularly during the dry season (December–April). Get here soon after opening (7am) to experience it at its quietest and for the best chance to spot wildlife. Note that the park is not open on Mondays.
The Beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park
The park is home to four beaches: Manuel Antonio, Espadilla Sur, Teloro, and Playita. Two of these run along the Punta Catedral, an island-like landform connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. On the southern side is Playa Manuel Antonio, and the northern side hosts Espadilla Sur. Playa Manuel Antonio is ideal for snorkeling with sheltered, swim-friendly waters, while the waters at Espadilla Sur can be rough at times.
Address: Quepos, Costa Rica
From $ 55
Las Pumas Rescue Center
Las Pumas Rescue Center is located in the Guanacaste area near Cañas and serves to rescue, rehabilitate and ensure good conditions for wildlife in Costa Rica. The rescue center primarily caters to larger cats, but there are a number of local species that have benefited from the services at Las Pumas. In addition to the large cats, monkeys, deer and even parrots have been treated here, as well as two toucans that were rescued in 2007 after two men were caught trying to sell them.
The center was established in the midst of deforestation in the 1960s to promote wildlife rehabilitation and conversation efforts. The site fights against hunting, deforestation and poaching of wild animals in Guanacaste by taking in animals that have been removed from their natural habitat, seized by authorities or even brought in by concerned citizens.
It’s important to note that Las Pumas Rescue Center is not a zoo. Animals are rehabilitated with a goal of returning them to the wild; however, that isn't always feasible. Animals unfit to be released are continually cared for.
Practical Info
The Las Pumas Rescue Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (until 5 p.m. during high season) and is located at the Palo Verde National Park. Donations to the nonprofit organization are welcomed to help Las Pumas rehabilitate injured Costa Rican wildlife.
Address: Pan-American Highway, 4. 5km From Canas (Direction Liberia) | Canas, Canas, Costa Rica, Canas, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; until 5 p.m. in high season
Admission: $10
From $ 100
Pacuare River
A river winding through the dense Costa Rican rainforest, the Pacuare flows from the Talamanca Mountains to the Caribbean Sea. Known for its exotic wildlife as well as whitewater rafting conditions, the river is divided into sixteen sections. Sabe, palm, and banana trees line its waterfront, where colorful birds, monkeys, ocelots, and even jaguars can be spotted. As a true gorge, it is surrounded by walls of thick greenery, frequent waterfalls, and colorful plants. Sloths, toucans, parrots, butterflies, snakes, and frogs are a few of the animals that populate the rainforest beside its banks.
The river has several different classes of rapids, with varying levels of adventure based on skill levels and experience. Part of the river opens up to a unique five mile stretch of scenery, along the Valle del Pacuare. It has been recognized as one of the best river trips in the world, both for its rapids and its dramatic tropical rainforest scenery.
Practical Info
Visiting the river is best done as a guided trip. Turriabla is the closest city to the river, with transportation accessible from both San Jose and the Arenal areas. River rafting requires the rental of equipment and hiring of a guide, which can be done from either city.
Address: Pacuare River, Costa Rica
From $ 85
National Museum (Museo Nacional)
The National Museum, housed in the barracks of the Bellavista Fortress, has been proudly displaying indigenous and pre-Columbian artifacts, religious artwork and geological and archaeological pieces linked to Costa Rica’s rich and colorful history since 1950.
Separate rooms explore ancient cultures dating back some 12,000 years, as well as collections of ornate jewelry, medallions and statues made of gold. And while the Museum’s impressive collection of grinding stones and other artifacts from ancient Costa Rica grant tourists a chance to travel back in time, visitors should be sure to explore the grounds, too. Nationals fought at the barracks during the Civil War in 1948, and damage from bullet holes and warfare can still be seen in the Spanish-style courtyard.
Separate rooms explore ancient cultures dating back some 12,000 years, as well as collections of ornate jewelry, medallions and statues made of gold. And while the Museum’s impressive collection of grinding stones and other artifacts from ancient Costa Rica grant tourists a chance to travel back in time, visitors should be sure to explore the grounds, too. Nationals fought at the barracks during the Civil War in 1948, and damage from bullet holes and warfare can still be seen in the Spanish-style courtyard.
Practical Info
The National Museum is located in the Bellavista Fortress at Calle 17, between Cenral and Second Avenues. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30am until 4:30pm, and on Sundays from 9am until 4:30pm. Foreign visitors pay $8 to enter or $4 with a valid student ID.
Address: Cuesta de Moras, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: Tue - Sat 8:30am-4pm; Sundays 9am-4:30pm
Admission: Adult: $8; Student: $4
From $ 14
Playa Flamingo
There was once a time when Playa Flamingo was nothing but mangroves and sand, but an influx of modern, high end development now dots the white sand coast. Love it, lament it, loathe it, or live it, the best thing to do in Playa Flamingo is simply relax and enjoy it. Playa Flamingo’s sugary shoreline is sheltered by Punta Salinas, and sandwiched between Portrero Bay and the town of Brasilito. Deep sea fisherman flock to the town for some of the world’s best angling, and at the nearby Catalina Islands, snorkelers and divers can spend the day with turtles, manta rays, or dolphins. As with much of the Guanacaste region, Playa Flamingo is a welcome combination of tranquility and first world comforts. You can leave a winding trail of footprints on a beautiful golden beach, or fill the day with golf, shopping, and exceptional dining by night. You can search for monkeys and Leatherback turtles in the nearby national parks, or spend the entire day floating or swimming in the protected bay. While nearby towns such as Tamarindo are a haven for visiting surfers, Playa Flamingo is better suited for swim trunks, mask, and snorkel. And, since modern development has brought improvement to access and local roads, shopping, nightlife, and modern pursuits are only a short drive away.
Practical Info
Playa Flamingo is 30 minutes from Tamarindo and an hour from Liberia’s airport. High season is from November-April when the coast is sunny and dry, and rainy season peaks in September with periodic floods.
Address: Playa Flamingo, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
From $ 85
Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach is known for its black sand beaches and close proximity to Costa Rica’s capital city. But it’s also widely recognized for its diverse landscapes, breathtaking beauty and endless options for outdoor fun. The vast shores and crystal blue waters attract as many out of town travelers as they do locals.
Travelers can learn to surf, snorkel and swim in the clear ocean waters off the coast of Jaco. And those who want to experience the diversity of Coast Rica’s ecological landscapes can tour nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, the Carara biological reserve or the Damas Island Estuary. There are rain forest canopy tours, whale watching trips and beach side horseback riding adventures, too. Whether visitors are looking to unwind or eager to explore the shores of Jaco Beach offer the best of both worlds to travelers.
Practical Info
Jaco Beach is located a short drive from the San Jose airport and is the closest coastal destination to the capital city.
Address: Costa Rica
From $ 65
Rio Celeste
The dazzling centerpiece of Costa Rica’s Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio Celeste is most famous for its shockingly bright blue color. The river’s hue results from a natural reaction of volcanic sulfur and calcium carbonate, which tints the clear waters.
The Basics
Reached by hiking through the surrounding rain forest, Rio Celeste rewards visitors with its natural beauty and a number of other sights along the river. Most notable are the Rio Celeste Waterfall, a favorite photo spot where the river tumbles into a striking blue lagoon; the Teñideros, where two rivers merge in the Celeste; and the Poza Azul, the most stunning “dye pool.”
Many travelers opt to visit the national park on a 1- or 2-day tour from Tamarindo or La Fortuna. Excursions usually include a hike to the waterfall. Although swimming is prohibited within the park, it is possible to bathe in the river’s hot springs or enjoy white-water tubing along the river.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission fee to enter the Tenorio Volcano National Park and visitor numbers are limited, so it’s best to arrive early.
- The trail to the waterfall is 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) round-trip, and hiking to the waterfall takes about an hour.
- A raincoat and sturdy shoes with a good grip are essential, as rain is common even in the dry season. The trails are unpaved and can get extremely muddy.
- Restrooms, a restaurant, and a car park are located at the entrance to the national park.
How to Get There
The Río Celeste is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in northwestern Costa Rica, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from San José. There is no public transport directly to the park, but it’s possible to take a taxi from the nearby town of Bijagua.
When to Get There
The river’s startling color change is best viewed during the dry season (December to April). Excess rainfall can dilute the reactive chemicals, leaving the waters with a less appealing muddy hue. The busiest period is from February to April, when it’s best to make an early start. Hikers allowed on the trail are limited, so you might find yourself having to wait if it gets too crowded.
Tenorio Volcano National Park
Hiking is the main activity in Tenorio Volcano National Park and there are a number of well-signposted short trails to follow. The Waterfall Trail is the main attraction, but worthwhile detours include the Mirador, a 5-minute trail that affords gorgeous views across the rain forest; and the Tenorio Volcano trail, although it’s not possible to climb to the summit. The park also harbors a wealth of wildlife, including tapirs, howler monkeys, ocelots, and jaguars.
Address: Tenorio Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Admission: Varies
From $ 85
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Situated atop the Continental Divide, this high-altitude forest is literally shrouded in clouds. Wisps of fog trail through the lofty canopy, creating the perfect environment for thousands of animal and plant species. Here you can find wild orchids, colorful birds, and sinuous jungle cats—plus scenic mountaintop vistas.
The Basics
A gem of Central America, Monteverde Cloud Forest spans more than 35,089 acres (14,200 hectares) of land and contains 8 miles (12.9 kilometers) of trails. Trek through the lush reserve and immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s rich wilderness; spot rare wildlife; climb to “La Ventana,” a scenic overlook with panoramic views; and take a photo on the Continental Divide with one foot on the Pacific side and the other on the Caribbean side.
Guided tours of the reserve cover a wide range of interests. Nature lovers can head out on a guided hiking excursion, night tour, or private bird-watching tour, while thrill seekers can fly through the treetops on ziplines or traverse the park’s series of hanging bridges on a canopy tour. For an in-depth experience, it’s also possible to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest on a multiday tour of Costa Rica’s northwestern highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
- An on-site restaurant offers traditional Costa Rican dishes.
- The road to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is half paved and half unpaved; a vehicle equipped with 4-wheel drive is recommended.
How to Get There
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is located along the Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range, roughly three hours by road from San José. Bus services connect San José to Santa Elena. From there, a transportation service runs periodically to the reserve.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit is during Costa Rica’s dry season (mid-December to April), when the weather is ideal for exploring. Arrive early in the day if you want to avoid crowds.
Exploring the Reserve
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve contains four different ecological zones and also includes Monteverde Biological Reserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, the Children's Eternal Rainforest, and part of the Arenal Volcano National Park. Most of the reserve is still comprised of untouched forest.
Address: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Monte Verde, Costa Rica
From $ 105
Plaza de la Cultura
As far as city squares go, Plaza de la Cultura leaves much to be desired. That’s because its unremarkable architecture and mostly concrete designs tend to make it one of the less visually pleasing squares in this colorful city.
Still, travelers in search of a true taste of San Jose life will do well to visit this busy square, where locals gather after weekend shopping trips and stay well into the night. Ice cream vendors sell sweet, cool treats, which are perfect for taking the edge off a steamy afternoon. Plaza de la Cultura is typically teeming with street performers and vendors and a nearby police tower means that even with the crowds, it’s still one of the safest places in the city.
Practical Info
Plaza de la Cultura is located on Avenida Central between Calles 3 and 5 near Gran Hotel Costa Rica. It is a short walking distance from Museo Nacional de Costa Rica. Visitors can take the train to Estacion de Ferrocarril al Atlantico, travel to the plaza via one of the city’s buses.
Address: Bulevar Avenida Central, San José, Costa Rica
From $ 58
Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
Tucked away in the mountains and known locally as Mariposario, Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is one of the town's most visited attractions, having been educating visitors about Costa Rica's local insect and arachnid species for more than 20 years.
Guides take visitors through the various displays at the biodiversity center, which features over 20 species of live insects and arachnids, as well as an active leaf-cutter ant colony. When it comes to butterflies, this site reigns supreme with more than 30 species in four different climate-controlled habitats that represent ones found in Costa Rica. The three-acre garden also houses other wildlife, including white-faced capuchin monkeys, agoutis, coatis, toucans, motmots and more.
Practical Info
Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is located near downtown Santa Elena, accessible via either a 20-minute walk or a short cab ride from town. Onsite guides speak English and/or Spanish. It should be known that Monteverde Butterfly Gardens accepts cash only – either USD or Colones.
Address: Jardin de Mariposas, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: Adults $15, Students $10, Children 4-6 $5, Children 3 & Under free
From $ 135
National Theater
Perhaps the most famous (and certainly most prized) public building in all of San Jose, the National Theater of Costa Rica in the city’s Catedral district, is home to the nation’s cultural community. Classical music, theater and dance performances take place several times a week. And while it’s always worth catching a show, the theater’s traditional Renaissance architecture, breathtaking ceilings and grand interiors make it a must-see stop even if you can’t get tickets for the symphony.
Free tours of the historic building, which was built in1897, take place daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the theater’s highly regarded café with picturesque San Jose views, is a perfect spot to grab lunch before exploring the rest of the city.
Free tours of the historic building, which was built in1897, take place daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the theater’s highly regarded café with picturesque San Jose views, is a perfect spot to grab lunch before exploring the rest of the city.
Practical Info
The theater is located on 2nd Avenue between 3rd and 5th Street in the capital city and is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Entry is $7. Visit the theater’s website for information on performances and an updated monthly schedule.
Address: National Theatre of Costa Rica, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: Mon - Sat 9am-4pm
Admission: Entrance: $7
From $ 10
Miravalles Volcano
Towering 6,653 feet above the northwestern plains, Miravelles volcano is the highest peak in the region of Guanacaste. The air up here is refreshingly cool when compared to the tropical beaches, and adventurous day trips up Miravalles volcano provide a way to escape the coast for the wild, rain-soaked interior. Though technically classified as a dormant volcano, Miravelles still carries enough heat to cause geysers and pockets of steam. Hiking to naturally heated mud baths is a popular visitor activity, and the smell of sulfur hangs in the air like the clouds that cling to the trees. Hiking, horseback riding, and ziplining tours all dot the volcanic slope, and for a dose of authentic rainforest adventure, make the hike to Celeste Waterfall that thunders into a cerulean lagoon in the middle of a tropical rainforest. When you aren’t bathing in natural hot springs or cooling off beneath falls, scan the treetops for colorful signs of dozens of species of birds. Thanks in part to a microclimate that’s caused by the lush volcano, the birdwatching here is some of the best you’ll find in Costa Rica, and whether you’re wobbling your way across suspension bridges or riding tractors to get there, visiting Miravelles volcano is a highlight of touring Guanacaste.
Practical Info
Miravelles volcano is approximately 90 minutes from the Guanacaste coast. Day trips from Tamarindo and Playa del Coco are a popular way to visit, and the nearest town is the town of Bagaces about 30 minutes away. Should you choose to visit, be sure to bring clothes that can get dirty and wet and a sturdy pair of shoes.
Address: Guanacaste and Northwest, Costa Rica, Costa Rica
From $ 110
Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Rincon de La Vieja National Park is one of the country’s most diverse ecological areas. Surrounding two volcanoes, Rincon (active) and Santa Maria (dormant), the park is also home to an extraordinary display of local flora and fauna, while being a part of the Area de Conservacion Guanacaste World Heritage site.
While the plant life is impressive on its own, especially considering the enormous concentration of purple orchids here, it’s the concentration of volcanoes that really wows visitors. The Rincon de La Vieja volcano gave rise to the park’s name and contains nine separate but contiguous craters. It is one of the largest of the five volcanoes in the Guanacaste region and is believed to be over a million years old. Despite being considered active, it has not erupted since the early 1980s.
The park does see a lot of volcanic activity, including vents, fumaroles and boiling mud pots and has at least 32 rivers that flow down its sides. There are a number of nature trails for guests, with some reserved for very experienced hikers. The most popular is the 2.5-mile La Pailas trail, which takes about two to three hours and is great for spotting wildlife, flora, waterfalls and traces of volcanic activity. More ambitious hikers can spend eight hours hiking to the Santa Maria crater's summit, from where you can see Lake Nicaragua on a clear day.
Practical Info
Rincon de La Vieja National Park is open year-round and is closed on Mondays. Dry season, which typically falls between December and April, is the recommended time to visit, as the trails are dry and it’s easiest to spot wildlife gathering at water sources. Easter (Holy Week) and Christmas are peak times for locals to visit and the park may be very crowded. Be sure to bring swimwear and shoes appropriate for loose gravel and rugged terrain. Hikers are only allowed to complete one hiking trail at a time and must check in with the ranger station to avoid initiating a search.
Address: Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: $10/person
From $ 92
Parque La Sabana
With its 175 acres of green space and network of forested walking trails, Parque La Sabana is San José’s version of New York’s Central Park. The large open lawns are perfect for Frisbee, soccer, or tossing a ball, and the walking trails and running tracks are where to work up a sweat. This site once housed the city’s airport until the 1940s, and today the former terminal building houses the Costa Rican Art Museum. Also within the leafy park is the country’s national stadium, where concerts and national soccer matches are held for up to 40,000 people. On most days, however, the park plays hosts to groups of locals all feeding the geese by the pond, or families simply enjoying a picnic beneath the shade of a tree. It’s a calming place to escape the crowds and the urban city bustle, and a comfortable perch for people watching and mingling with San José locals.
Practical Info
Parque La Sabana is located at the western end of upscale Paseo Colón. There is no admission fee or opening hours, although daytime hours are often safest and nights are best avoided.
Address: Av. de Las Américas, San Jose, Costa Rica
From $ 50
Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park
What’s the only thing better than visiting hot springs in the uplands of La Fortuna? How about splashing inside of the hot springs after racing top speed down a slide. At the Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park, travelers can soak in thermally heat pools near the base of Arenal volcano, while enjoying the comforts, smiles, and thrills you’d expect of a modern waterpark. At the four-story tower that’s known as The Mammoth, sit in a wide, circular raft and pack it full of your friends, and then go shooting nearly 400 feet down a winding, twisting slide. The Triple Slide has triple the fun, and you can race your friends or family members to see who splashes down first. You’ll also find an interactive play area for children—just don’t get caught beneath the big bucket when it splashes down water from above!
Insider's Tip: For a truly unique La Fortuna experience, visit the waterpark at night.
Practical Info
Locker rental is $3 and towels are available for a $7 deposit. There is a restaurant on site, although no outside food is allowed. Many of the water slides have a minimum age of 6 years old, and children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult in the play area.
Address: Kalambu Hot Springs, Rte 142, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Hours: December-February: 10am-10pm daily; March-June: 10am-10pm from Friday-Sunday; July: 10am-10pm daily; August-November: 10am-10pm from Friday-Sunday.
Admission: $32 for adults and $16 for children
From $ 32
Jade Museum (Museo de Jade)
The Jade Museum (Museo del Jade) proves to Costa Rica visitors that this small Central American country is as rich in its history and cultural offerings as in biodiversity. The museum, located in the Costa Rican capital of San Jose, showcases more than 1,000 years’ worth of artifacts from Mesoamerica dating from 500 B.C. to 800 A.D.—including pre-Columbian jade, wood, and ceramics—in a renovated space.
The Basics
A visit to the Jade Museum sheds light on pre-Columbian societies and traditional Costa Rican culture. Thanks to its central location in downtown San Jose, the Jade Museum can easily be added onto any city tour. Explore its collection of 7,000 artifacts on your own or go with a guide for a more comprehensive experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must-see for history buffs.
- Children under 12 receive a reduced rate of $2.
- Plan to spend roughly two hours exploring the five floors of displays.
- Engaging kid-friendly activities include an excavation role-play and giant puzzles.
- The museum offers a souvenir shop, restaurant, and cafe; take your drinks to go while you tour the exhibits.
How to Get to the Jade Museum
The Jade Museum is located on Central Street in San Jose, just down the road from the National Museum of Costa Rica and two blocks south of the famed National Park, so it’s easy to visit while you’re exploring downtown. Multiple bus lines stop within a few blocks of the museum, and the Museo stop on the Tren Urbano rapid transit system is a five-minute walk away. Transport by taxi or private vehicle is also available.
When to Get There
The Jade Museum is open year-round from 10am to 5pm, including weekends, but it’s best to confirm opening hours during the many national holidays. Thanks to one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian artifacts in all of Central America, the museum can attract crowds. Save time waiting in line by booking tickets ahead or exploring as part of a tour. Otherwise, expect the largest crowds during Costa Rica’s high season, which runs from late November through April.
Say What?
You may want to brush up on your Spanish or download a translation app before visiting the museum, as much of the information is presented in Spanish. If you need a place to start, remember that jade is pronounced "ha-day," the Spanish word for gold is oro, and pre-Columbian is precolombino.
Address: West side of Plaza de la Democracia, Central Av. Street 13 and 13 bis, San Jose 10101, Costa Rica
Hours: Monday through Sunday, 10am to 5pm
Admission: $15
From $ 15
Orosi River Valley
The thick green forests, fertile coffee plantations and scenic mountains of the Orosi River Valley draw bird watchers, freshwater fishermen and nature lovers to the banks of the Reventazon River, as well as the pristine lake formed by the Cachi Dam.
Travelers can spend the morning wandering through Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi Church, where Spanish Colonial artifacts and religious paintings line the interior of Costa Rica’s oldest church still in use. Adventurers will enjoy an afternoon at the Irazu Volcano. Crater lakes and lush farmland make for scenic hikes and picturesque views.
The Ruins of Ujarras, with peaceful gardens and even a nearby public swimming pool, prove another popular destination for both travelers and residents. Buy lunch from one of the local women selling fragrant arepas before exploring the historic ruins and cooling off with a refreshing dip.
Travelers can spend the morning wandering through Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi Church, where Spanish Colonial artifacts and religious paintings line the interior of Costa Rica’s oldest church still in use. Adventurers will enjoy an afternoon at the Irazu Volcano. Crater lakes and lush farmland make for scenic hikes and picturesque views.
The Ruins of Ujarras, with peaceful gardens and even a nearby public swimming pool, prove another popular destination for both travelers and residents. Buy lunch from one of the local women selling fragrant arepas before exploring the historic ruins and cooling off with a refreshing dip.
Practical Info
Orosi River Valley is located about 40 miles from San Jose and five miles south of Cartago.
Address: Orosi, Costa Rica
From $ 107
Playa Conchal
Whether it’s the feeling of seashells squishing softly between your toes as you walk, or the masseuse’s hands kneading into your back as waves splash gently on the coast, Playa Conchal has a calming feel that encapsulates pura vida. This mostly undeveloped, somewhat hidden beach has a South Pacific feel, where turquoise water beautifully blends with the pinkish hue of the sand. Grab a snorkel mask and dive right in to swim with colorful reef fish, or explore the length of the beach on horseback while enjoying a saddle-view sunset. With the exception of the all-inclusive luxury resort on the beach’s northern end, Playa Conchal is serenely empty and a welcome break from the crowds. Beachgoers who want a little more action can hang around the resort, where jet ski rentals and mobile vendors help bring Conchal to life. Or, if the only sounds you want to hear are wind, waves, and your footsteps, take a leisurely stroll down the beach to find your own private spot. While Playa Conchal is definitely one of Guanacaste’s best beaches, there’s plenty of it to go around for every visitor to enjoy.
Practical Info
Playa Conchal is located 30 minutes from Tamarindo and an hour from the airport at Liberia. Aside from the all-inclusive resort, there are budget accommodations in Brasilito a 15 minute walk up the beach. To access Playa Conchal itself, you can either make the enjoyable stroll from the beach at Brasilito, or drive on the sand at lower tide and hope you don’t get caught.
Address: Playa Conchal, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
From $ 85
Poas Volcano National Park
Poas Volcano National Park houses one of the more popular volcanoes in Costa Rica—a telling superlative for a country with world-famous geothermal activity. But with its spectacular wildlife, informative museum, and variety of hiking trails, the accolade comes as no surprise.
The Basics
Poas Volcano makes for a thrilling day-trip destination from San Jose, as tours regularly depart from the city for the volcano and often combine a visit with other popular Costa Rica activities such as white-water rafting, coffee plantation tours, or a stop at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
Though a thick cloud forest and scenic vistas line the way up Poas Volcano, the crater steals the show. Poas Volcano’s mile-long (1.6-kilometer-long) crater is filled with the deep, rain-fed Botos Lagoon and dotted with smoking fumaroles—a view most will find accessible from the paved, 0.3-mile (half-kilometer) trail leading there from the visitors' center. Two slightly longer hikes offer incredible opportunities to spot wildlife like hummingbirds, wildflowers, and the elusive quetzal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress in layers and for rain, as it can be cold and wet near the crater.
- Visiting time is limited to 10 minutes at the crater.
- The visitors' center is wheelchair accessible.
- On-site facilities include parking, picnic tables, restrooms, and a cafe with some food options.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Poas Volcano is as part of a guided day tour. The park is also accessible with private transportation. Bus services to Alajuela are sparse.
When to Get There
Get the best views when you visit early in the day during the dry season (December through April). Clouds typically roll in around noon, and many of the park’s facilities close by 3pm.
Address: Highway 126, Poasito 4050, Costa Rica
Hours: Open daily
From $ 19
Rio Negro Hot Springs
Costa Rica is known for its incredible natural beauty, laid back vibes and picture-perfect views. Nowhere is this more evident than the Rio Negro Hot Springs. This pristine destination is home to six thermal pools with waters that are naturally heated by the nearby Ricon de la Vieja Volcano. A constant flow of water from a crystal clear river ensures the pools are always being replenished.
Tired travelers will have the chance to experience true rejuvenation on a visit to this popular destination. They can enjoy the healing benefits of a volcanic mud bath by smoothing clay over their entire body, then taking a dip in a thermal pool once it’s dried. Rio Negro Hot Springs is the perfect natural escape for visitors to Costa Rica who want to experience ultimate luxury and ultimate relaxation.
Practical Info
Travelers can get to Rio Negro using one of two transportation options: Horseback or car/minibus. Horses can be picked up at Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin for a 1.5-hour trip each way. Minibuses also depart from the same location for a ride that is about 20 minutes each way. Entrance to the hot springs is $10 and includes a towel.
Address: Guachipelin, Guanacaste and Northwest, Costa Rica, Costa Rica
Admission: $10
From $ 120